Railroad Point Natural Area — Attraction in Benzonia Township

I have been to hundreds of Nature Trails in Michigan and I rank this one last. The trail is ok, especially in the spring for wildflowers but they advertise 'spectacular views of Crystal Lake' from the Scenic Viewing area. What Scenic View? This picture is the best I could get from the Scenic area and I had to stand on the bench to get this. Since I'm a photographer, I hike to get good shots and rely on reviews for info. Suggestion? Clear a viewing area by cutting some...

Fyi No public swimming area.

It is a gorgeous, magical little forest. It's just surrounded by privately owned no trespassing style areas. Lame. If you noticed and were curious about the seasonal road, the one very near the nature area trail head parking lot. Don't do it in a car. It's a dead end. Ungroomed. We hiked the rest but only got to the same intersecting trail as we would've had we parked safely and walked the trail casually from the...

Short but meandering hilly trails from the parking lot to the lookout point over Crystal Lake. And access down to the Betsie Valley Trail. Beautiful views of the lake from a high point gives a great perspective of the size and character of the lake. Spring flowers are fun as they emerge in April and May. Fun place for the dog as well. Children will...